Introduction

We are delighted to present you with the latest catalogue of beef bulls that are now available through the Gene Ireland program. The breeding program is a joint initiative between Pedigree Breeders, Commercial farmers, Breed Societies, AI Companies, DAFM & ICBF. The aim of the program is to progeny test high index beef bulls which will produce profitable cows for the suckler beef industry. The minimum criteria for a bull to be included on the panel is 5 Stars across breed on Replacement Index. We have included a section dedicated to high Terminal Index bulls which are selected to produce profitable animals for sale or slaughter. The minimum criteria for a bull to be included in the Terminal section is 5 Stars across breed on Terminal Index.

The Benefits

If you contact ICBF (023-8820452) and order semen from any of the bulls in this catalogue you will receive the following benefits:

 Access to the highest index new beef bulls in Irish AI at €7 per straw (technician charges may apply).

 Straws delivered to your own tank or the technician of your choosing.

 Progress towards meeting the scheme targets.

 Potentially sell some of the progeny back to ICBF for performance testing at the Tully Beef Test Centre.

 Freedom to choose whatever combination of bulls & breeds that you require from the catalogue.

Gene Ireland Overview

The diagram below gives an overview of both the design and operation of the Gene Ireland Beef program.